Mexico CityvsBudapest
Overall
💰+15.6%
Mexico City is 15.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+20.0%
Food shopping 20.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Budapest, Hungary reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Budapest by approximately 15.6%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Mexico City are similar than in Budapest. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Budapest is approximately HUF 200,000.
Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Budapest. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus HUF 2,000 in Budapest.
Public transportation in Mexico City is more affordable, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to HUF 9,500 in Budapest.
Purchasing power in Budapest is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
Grocery shopping in Mexico City is more affordable by approximately 17%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Mexico City can expect to spend approximately MX$5,050 per month (excluding rent), while in Budapest, the same lifestyle would cost around HUF 94,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus HUF 331,100 in Budapest. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Mexico City to Budapest, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Budapest to Mexico City requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Mexico City
Budapest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City more expensive than Budapest?
Yes, Mexico City is approximately 15.6% more expensive than Budapest overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mexico City compared to Budapest?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Budapest salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Budapest, you'd need about $57,778 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mexico City and Budapest?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 17%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Budapest offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Budapest provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mexico City if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Budapest for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mexico City vs Budapest?
In Mexico City, a single person needs approximately MX$13,050 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about MX$35,675. In Budapest, these figures are HUF 234,600 for singles and HUF 581,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mexico City and Budapest in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Budapest to maintain your lifestyle from Mexico City
Calculate Salary Equivalence